FEELBetterS U M M E R 2 0 1 7

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Are your kids getting

enough sleep?2

New BioFire identifies

infections.3

How Firelands benefits our local

communities.

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Preschool: 11–13 hours

Ages 6–13: 9–11 hours

Adolescence/High School: 8½ – 9½ hours

How much sleep doesyour child really need?Sleep?Are your kids getting enough

Kids these days are busy. Whether they are using brainpower during school, running around playing, goingto sports practice, working a job, or helping outaround the house, their bodies are exerting a lot of energy every day.

at is why it is extra important that kids are gettingan adequate amount of sleep – it lets their body rest so they are able to take on the next day ahead of thembut it is also an important part of their physical andmental development.

“Poor sleep can increase anxiety and depression in kids,” said Sara Glenn, RPSGT, senior lead sleeptechnologist with Firelands Center for Sleep Disorders.

“It can also poorly impact their physical development.”Unfortunately kids aren’t getting the proper amount

of sleep or quality sleep and some of that is attributedto the overuse of electronic devices, including cellphones, tablets, and gaming systems before bedtime.

“e blue light from electronics actually delays therelease of melatonin,” Sara said. “It prevents kids frombeing able to fall asleep, it increases alertness, and itcan reset their circadian rhythm (your sleep/wakecycle) to a later time in the evening.”

Sara said the most common symptom kids withsleep problems complain about is being able to fallasleep and stay asleep throughout the night. She saidother symptoms include:

� Hyperactivity/trouble concentrating� Irritability� Loud snoring� Difficulty falling or staying asleep� Frequently waking up with a sore throat/

dry mouth� Headaches in the morning� Sleep walking/talking� Unusual movement when sleeping� Teeth grinding/jaw hurting� Excessive tiredness

However, Sara said that insufficient quality sleep can be remedied by following these 10 tips for good sleep hygiene:

� Maintain a daily sleep schedule & bedtime� Create relaxing bedtime routine� Create consistent bedroom environment/

remove distractions� Set limits with child & enforce� Encourage use of security item

(blanket, stuffed animal)� Remove all electronics from room

(tv, phone, tablet)� Create digital curfew 1–2 hours before bedtime� Exercise daily, but not 2–3 hours before bedtime� Avoid caffeine in the evening� Avoid heavy meals 2–3 hours before bedtime

In addition, if symptoms continue to persist, Sara suggests having a sleep study done at the FirelandsCenter for Sleep Disorders. e sleep study includestesting the carbon dioxide levels, respiratory effort and flow, oxygen levels, and includes an EEG (to testelectrical activity in the brain) and an EKG (checks for problems with the electrical activity of the heart).

To learn more about the Center for Sleep Disorders,please visit firelands.com/sleep

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Many infectious diseases cause similar signs andsymptoms, making testing and diagnosing difficult.Traditional targeted diagnostics limit testing to onlythe most common disease causing agents. In addition,traditional testing can require several days for a diag-nosis to be made, delaying appropriate treatment.

“By utilizing the BioFire syndromic diagnostic approach, we can identify actual causative agentswithin one to two hours. is faster turn around timeallows us to more accurately diagnose the infection,which improves patient care by allowing more judicialuse of antibiotics. In turn, there is less chance of antimicrobial resistance and an overall reduction in antibiotic use,” explains Michael Blank, MD, infectious disease.

Currently the laboratory at Firelands is using thesystem’s Blood Culture Identification Panel to test for 27 of the most common causes of bloodstream infections, which allows clinicians to quickly identifythe probable cause of sepsis and prescribe the mostbeneficial treatment.

Also in use is the Meningitis/Encephalitis Panel totest for a comprehensive set of the 14 bacteria, virusesand yeast that cause infections in the central nervoussystem. Rapidly identifying the probable cause ofthese potentially severe conditions can allow faster decisions on appropriate therapy.

“In the past, we would have to send out the patient’s spinal fluid sample for viral testing and have to wait approximately one week for results. e patient couldn’t be discharged until we receivedthe results and could make a diagnosis. Now, we havethe results in one to two hours. is long turnaroundtime for the meningitis panel is what prompted Dr. Blank to look for a faster testing system,” says Julie Kobasher, MT, (ASCP), lead technologist in microbiology in the Firelands laboratory.

Other panels, including those for respiratory, gastrointestinal and lower respiratory tract infection,can be added to the system as needed.

Julie adds, “is new system provides major benefitsfor both clinicians and patients. We have increased capability of detecting infections at a much faster rate,which translates to better outcomes for our patients.We are very excited to bring this new technology toour community.”

A new system at Firelands quicklydetects and identifies infections

“We now have increased capability of detecting

infections at a much

faster rate.”– Julie Kobasher, Lead Technologist in Microbiology

Julie Kobasher, MT, (ASCP), lead technologist in microbiology in the Firelands laboratory, shows off BioFire – a new piece of infectious control equipment.

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With ongoing mental health and drug addiction issues happening in our area, oentimes we are asked what FirelandsRegional Medical Center Counseling & Recovery Services can offer to helpthose in need.

A Dozen Things to Know About Firelands Counseling & Recovery Services:� Is the only 24/7/365 Crisis Hotline

handling 22,038 calls in 2016 for mental health and substance abuse in a 7-county region in partnership withthose counties’ Mental Health Boards.

� Is the largest provider of Mental Healthand Addiction Services in a 7-countyarea and the largest “hospital based”program in the State of Ohio. Manyhospitals and health systems across the country do not offer ANY mentalhealth or addiction services includingmany of the local hospitals in our surrounding area.

� Has 11 outpatient locations across 7counties providing Mental Health and Chemical Dependency services. It is also co-located on the medical campuses of Firelands Regional MedicalCenter, Fisher-Titus Medical Center, Bellevue Hospital, and Mercy Willard Hospital.

� Was awarded a $1.2M grant from theOhio Department of Mental Health andAddiction Services (Ohio MHAS) andthe Substance Abuse and Mental HealthServices Administration (SAMHSA) forScreening, Brief Intervention and Referralto Treatment (SBIRT) services. isprogram is designed to identify and reduce problematic alcohol and otherdrug use through early intervention and the integration of medical and behavioral healthcare providers. SBIRThas served over 18,500+ patients onFirelands Inpatient Units, the EmergencyDepartment, 2 Primary Care Practices,2 Health Departments, Urgent Care,and a Federally Qualified Health Centersince the inception of the grant.

� Received two consecutive SAMHSAgrants to embed primary care in five ofour Behavioral Health offices. e PlusProgram provides basic primary care toat-risk, underserved populations withmental health/addiction disorders dueto the fact that these individuals die 25years earlier due to a lack of access toPrimary Care. To date, this program has served 2,244 patients. e program began providing Medication Assistederapy (MAT), through the use of Vivitrol, to over 90 individuals in a 6-county area.

� Has partnered with Erie/Ottawa MentalHealth Boards, the Erie County Jail, and the Erie/Ottawa Health Depts. to provide Counseling & Recovery Services Mental Health Professionals in each county’s jail in response to 2 suicides at the Erie County Jail. In addition, Firelands Counseling & Recovery Services continues to expandits services in 6 county jails workingwith inmates with addiction problemsand mental illness – extensive efforts are taken to engage them in treatmentas they re-enter the community.

� Received a 2nd SAMHSA grant for$1.6M to provide an evidence-basedemployment program to assist peoplewith addiction and mental illness in obtaining and maintaining competitiveemployment with over 534 clientsserved and 141 employed as they areprogressing through treatment.

� Provides services at 2 area detentionhomes working directly with youth whohave addiction and mental health issues.

� Has implemented peer support servicesthrough a partnership with Sandusky Artisan’s to hire recovering addictsknown as Certified Peers to help thosein treatment have a mentor who hasstruggled with addiction and hasachieved success.

is available for those in need

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12� Has been recognized by the HuronCounty Board of Mental Health andAddiction Services in their Annual Report for achieving a 57% success rate in the treatment of people with addictions, which is double the 29%State Average of successful outcomesachieved by all Ohio providers.

� Created a joint brochure with the ErieCounty Health Department regardingavailable addiction treatment services in Erie County.

� Was characterized as an “elite” providerof addiction and mental health servicesin our most recent accreditation visit in2016 by the Commission on Accreditationfor Rehabilitation Facilities.

“We take the mental health and addictionepidemic very seriously,” stated MarshaMruk, MPA, FACHE, vice-president ofFirelands Counseling & Recovery Services.

“Firelands is treating people with addictionsin all of our programs and departments,including the emergency room, inpatientpsychiatric unit, inpatient and outpatient

services, and even our Center for Women& Newborns. In 2016, we had over 150,000outpatient visits to Firelands Counseling &Recovery Services and annually we admitover 1,600 residents to our inpatient psychiatric unit, in which roughly 59%have a secondary diagnosis that includes addiction. And most importantly, we treat everyone, regardless of their ability to pay.”

To learn more about Firelands Counseling & Recovery Services, please visitfirelands.com/mentalhealth.

“We take the mental health and addiction epidemic very seriously.”

– Marsha Mruk, vice-president of Firelands Counseling & Recovery Services

Firelands Counseling & Recovery Services is funded in part by the Mental Health and Recovery Board of Erie and Ottawa Counties; Huron County Board of Mental Health and Addiction Services; the Mental Health and Recovery Services Board of Seneca, Sandusky and Wyandot Counties;

the Lorain County Board of Mental Health; and Alcohol and Drug Addiction Services of Lorain County.

Firelands Regional Medical Center Inpatient Psychiatric Unit1111 Hayes AvenueSandusky 419-557-7580

Firelands Counseling & Recovery Services of Erie County1925 Hayes AvenueSandusky 419-557-5177

Firelands Counseling & Recovery Services of Huron County292 Benedict AvenueNorwalk 419-663-3737

290 Progress Drive, Suite BBellevue 419-483-6516

Mercy Health–Willard Hospital1100 Neal Zick RoadWillard 419-935-0452

Firelands Counseling & Recovery Services of Lorain County554 N. Leavitt RoadAmherst 440-984-3882

Firelands Counseling & Recovery Services of Ottawa County335 Buckeye Blvd.Port Clinton 419-734-2942

22052 West Street, Rt. 51Genoa 419-734-2942

Firelands Counseling & Recovery Services of Sandusky County675 Bartson RoadFremont 419-332-5524

Firelands Counseling & Recovery Services of Seneca County76 Ashwood RoadTiffin 419-448-9440

122 West Center StreetFostoria 419-435-0204

Firelands Counseling & Recovery Services of Wyandot County97 Houpt Drive, Suite WUpper Sandusky 419-294-4388

1-800-826-1306

Where to Find HELP in Your Area:

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Firelands Hits a Home Run with Perkins Little League

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Community members today have many opportunities to volunteer in addition to their busy schedules of work,travel, education, parenting and grand-parenting. The sheer variety and volume of potential agencies, organizations and causes can make the choices overwhelming.

Statistics show that the baby boom and millennial generations are the next wave of potential volunteers in communities worldwide and also the most selectivein terms of how to spend their discretionary time andtalent. Looking for challenging and meaningful work, yet flexible schedules, has become the standard requirement for these individuals and groups.

Firelands Regional Medical Center prides itself in offering a wide variety of volunteer opportunities to fit almost every schedule as well as personal and professionalchallenges. From clerical to retail to patient care settings,potential volunteers at Firelands can select from a varietyof openings with the ability to schedule the most flexibledays and times to fit their busy lives.

There are volunteer positions in more than 30 differentareas of our healthcare system including our many off-campus offices and facilities. While there are many traditional opportunities such as the Information Desk,Gift Shop and Emergency Room assistance, new positionsare developed frequently.

e volunteers at Firelands Regional Medical Center are valued members of the Firelands family.

If you are looking for challenging volunteer opportunities with a flexible schedule, pleaseconsider Firelands Regional Medical Center, visit our website at firelands.com/volunteeror call Volunteer Servicesat 419-557-7460

“There are volunteer positions in more than30 different areas of our healthcare system including our many off-campus offices and facilities.”Volunteer!

Oftentimes, the Spring and Summer months signify the beginning of baseball season. And for many people in the area, that means spending time at a local field watching a little

league game – sitting out in the sun and cheering on their favorite players. Youth sports are a great way for youngsters to begin a healthy lifestyle by staying active.

That is why Firelands Regional Medical Center entered into a three-year partnership with PerkinsTownship Youth Baseball to help the league operate and to offset costs for the over 300 youth that participate yearly in the league. This includes youth from not just Perkins Township, but also the City of Sandusky.

The Firelands Regional Medical Center Little League kicked off its season in May and saw an increase of over 100 kids compared to previous years. We look forward to watching these boys and girls not just learn valuable skills, but also have fun while playing.

Firelands offers financial assistance for underinsured patients

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any people know what the term “uninsured”means in regards to healthcare – by definitionit means not covered by health insurance.

But what does it mean to be “underinsured”? According to a survey by e Commonwealth

Fund, roughly 31 million people in the United Statesare considered underinsured – meaning they havehigh out-of- pocket healthcare costs, even though theyhave healthcare coverage. As a result, 44% of thesepeople either didn’t go to the doctor when they weresick, did not fill a prescription, skipped a physician–recommended medical test or follow-up visit, or didn’tsee a specialist when their doctor told them to do so.

“You would be surprised by the number of peoplewho have insurance, but it doesn’t cover what theythought it would,” said Debra Vassar, manager of patient financial services at Firelands Regional Medical Center.“A lot of people also can’t afford the plan they want, so they take a lesser plan with a larger deductible.” However, the friendly patient financial counselors atFirelands want to make sure that everyone has accessto quality healthcare, regardless of their ability to pay.

“Even if you have insurance, you need to check us out,” Debra said. “We are here for patients and employees. We try to get you down to a $0 balance.”

Debra said the billing and financial assistance department receives roughly 200–300 applications for financial assistance each month.

e financial counselors at Firelands Regional Medical Center are here to help those who are underinsured and uninsured

find ways to afford the healthcare they need.

Marie [L] and Phyllis [R] are just two of the smiling

faces you will meet when you check in at Firelands Regional

Medical Center.

MHow Underinsured Patients Can Receive Financial Assistance at Firelands:� Hospital Care Assurance Program (HCAP)*

Anyone can apply for HCAP as long as they have an outstanding bill with Firelands, including thosewithout insurance, those who have Medicare or Medicaid, and those who have a balance after insurance.

� Financial Assistance Program (FAP)*An in-house payment program funded by Firelands Regional Medical Center for individuals abovethe HCAP income levels.

� Catastrophic CoverageA discount is given based on the applicant’s situation after a thorough review.

� Care LoanThis is an interest free program through Civista Bank with a low monthly payment.

� The Foundation for Firelands Mammogram Fund & Susan G. Komen Northwest Ohio Grant FundProviding mammogram screening and diagnostic tests at low or no cost.

*HCAP and FAP programs do not cover charges incurred for physicians, hospitalists, pathologists, radiologists, anesthesiologists, or ambulance services.

“You would be surprised by the number of people who have insurance, but

it doesn’t cover what they thought it would...”

– Debra VassarManager of Patient Financial Services

“Never feel like you can’t come in for services,” shesaid. “ere is always help out there. Take that firststep and call us and we will help you along the way.”

Financial counselors can be reached by calling 419-557-7879.

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Did you know? When you visit Firelands Regional Medical Center’smain campus, you should always pay a visit to the staff at the Information Desk to "check-in"?

This includes if you are at the hospital to:� Visit someone in

a patient room� Have outpatient testing

completed (even if youhave preregisteredon the phone)

� Have a procedure, surgery or are being admitted

� Find a business office

Please make sure you’restopping here before moving on to other areas of the hospital.

If you have any questions,please call 419-557-7400.

Local Economic Impact in the Local Communities:� 2,497 individuals employed in the Firelands

Regional Health System, providing quality jobs in our community

� 303 Medical staff members representing over 35 different areas of specialty to keep your healthcare close to home. Medical staff members include Active Members, Courtesy/Consulting, Honorary/Emeritus, and Contracted medical staff

� 82 Allied health professionals, including additional medical professionals such as Physician Assistants, Nurse Practioneers, Certified Surgical Technicians (CST), Clinical Cardiac Perfusionists, Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists, etc.

� $1.6 million paid by Firelands employees in city and school payroll taxes which flow back into and support our community

� $14.7 million of goods and services purchasedfrom local companies to support other local organizations to help keep them in business

2016 Service to the Community:� 9,685 individuals served as inpatients in the

hospital, providing care to you and your family in times of sickness and injury

� 270,902 visits for outpatient services, providingthe latest in technology to improve the lives ofyou and your family

� 76,881 emergency room, emergency QuickCareand Urgent Care visits providing multiple levels of emergency and urgent care services for majorand minor injuries and illness

� 128,101 patient office visits provided by Firelands Physician Group, providing primarycare and specialty care services for health prevention and wellness

� 740 births, providing a caring and comforting environment for you and your newest family member

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2016 New Physicians

Marwan Wassouf, MDAdult Hospitalist

Thomas Felter, MDPain Management

Keith Frank, DO Adult Hospitalist

Chris Hassett, DO Neurology

Mikhail Kirnus, MDInterventional Cardiology

Mazhar Rahman, MDAdult Hospitalist

Sameh Rizkalla, MDPhysical Medicine &

RehabilitationThomas Lang, MD

Adult HospitalistSania Sultana, MD

Adult HospitalistMatthew Widmer, DO

Sports MedicineAdam Kapler, DO

Neurology

2017New Physicians Yuying Jiang, MD

PathologyEric Robinson, MD

Emergency Medicine Khurshid Igbal, DO

Adult HospitalistMichael Frings, DO

Adult HospitalistSafwan Khader, MD

Adult Hospitalist

How Does Firelands Regional Health SystemCare for Our Community?

$28.59 Million Unpaid Costs of Public Programs(Costs of services not covered by Medicare or Medicaid)People Served: 125,691

$2.10 Million Charity Care(Services provided without payment)People Served: 17,156

$623,455 Medical Education/ Nursing Programs(Firelands provides a program to train physicians & provides a school of nursing)Served: 17 Medical Education Residents &141 School of Nursing Students

$348,585 Subsidized Health ServicesPeople Served: 13,378

$169,721 Health Education & Outreach(Screenings, Educational Programs, Childbirth Classes, Health Fairs, etc.)People Served: 31,425

$394,859 In-Kind Donations(Support provided for other non-profit organizations, schools, etc. for programsbenefiting the community)

$126,005 Patient Education & Homecare(Education on disease prevention & homecare)People Served: 2,147

Firelands Regional Medical Center covered an additional $1.23 Million in bad debt expenses (actual cost) for which no monies were received for services rendered. Net community benefit represented 13.7% of total hospital expenses.

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FIRELANDS REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER2016 Community Benefit$32.3 Million with 189,797 People Served

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t was October 28, 2016, and for Sanduskynatives Bonnie and Otto Kromer, whatbegan as a typical day on their family

farm would change their lives forever.No one will ever know how it happened,

why it happened, or even when it happened.All they know is that someone found OttoKromer with his legs buckled underneathhim, cold and unconscious. He had fallenten feet from the top of his farm combine.e person who found him called 9-1-1 and soon Otto’s wife, Bonnie, was alerted to the fall.

“ank goodness for the person whofound him,” says Bonnie. “We don’t know howlong he lay there, but I knew immediately that this was a very bad situation.”

Bonnie arrived at Firelands EmergencyRoom at nearly the same time as the ambulance and despite the urgency of his condition she recalls being met with a caring and competent staff.

“e team in the ER was excellent,” shesays. “Dr. (Catherine) Taylor took charge of the situation immediately. She knew exactly what to do and made us feel morecomfortable despite the uncertainty of whatwas going on. ey did not find any signsof a stroke or cardiac event, but they wereable to stabilize him and get him into ICUto get the care he needed.”

Once Otto was transferred to the ICU for his head injury, he saw NeurosurgeonDr. Bo Yoo.

“We are where we are today because of Dr. Yoo,” Bonnie attests. “He is an excellentphysician.”

Otto agrees, “I know that my progress isbecause of Dr. Yoo. He was very professional,very knowledgeable and is a great physician.He does what is necessary for his patients. I think if I had gone somewhere else, I would’ve had a different outcome. Somepeople say if you go elsewhere (to Clevelandfor instance), you will get better care. We want people to know that Firelands Regional Medical Center is excellent. I received excellent care right here.”

IMaking the most of life’s harvest

“Otto Kromer wasfound with his legs

buckled underneath him, cold and unconscious...”

Otto endured months of therapy to regain basic skills like walking, clearspeech, sentence structure, mathematicsand other everyday tasks most people take for granted.

“We really have to thank the people inthe rehab unit and in speech, physical andoccupational therapy,” remarks Bonnie.

“e therapists have really helped myprogress, too,” says Otto. “And I never felt like I was a child in their eyes. Eventhough I was relearning tasks a childlearns, I never felt patronized. I always felt empowered by the therapists.”

Otto is not 100 percent back to his normal life yet, but every day he gets a bit better. He attributes farm life to addinga bit of therapy for him, but he also givesBonnie a lot of credit.

“Over the past months, Bonnie has had to step up a lot,” he says. “She’s tendedour cattle and done a lot around the farmwhen I couldn’t.”

But for Bonnie, that’s all a part of marriage and of her commitment to Otto, “Aer more than fiy years together, you just do what needs to be done. I’m justhappy to have Otto in the shape he is andwe can’t thank the staff at Firelands enoughfor their role in our lives.”Otto Kromer,

at home on his farm.

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for hope

Are You a Grateful Patient?There are many ways to recognize the extraordinarycare of those who helpedyou during your visit at Firelands Regional Medical Center.

If you have had an outstandingencounter with anyone onour staff, we encourage youto recognize that individualthrough our Grateful PatientProgram. Simply write thename of the person you wishto recognize in the tribute lineof the remittance envelope inthis magazine and enclose agift of any amount.

Gifts to Firelands RegionalMedical Center ensure thatothers in our community receive the same outstandingcare you have received duringyour stay. Your gift amountwill remain confidential andcan be designated to anyarea of patient care at Firelands Regional Medical Center.

You can also make a secure gift online at: foundationforfirelands.com

For more information contact the DevelopmentOffice at 419-557-7150.

Fashion Week, Sandusky StyleThursday, September 28 � Plum Brook Country Club, 5:30 pm � Cost: $175/personTickets are limited, call 419-557-7150 or buy online at FoundationForFirelands.com/fashion

Help someone sparkle by sharing and caring this fall.Life is full of wonderful moments and challenges…some that take us by surprise. e power of friendshipand the support of family, friends and loved onescarry us through our hardest times. Join us for the 9th annual Fashion Week, Sandusky Style “Diamondsfor Hope”, an extraordinary evening of caring andsharing that celebrates the transformational power of friendship in our lives. e best-selling book byCheryl Jarvis “e Necklace” tells the story of 13women whose shared purchase of a diamond necklacetransformed their lives. In much the same way, youcan help transform the lives of breast cancer patientsby being the sparkle in the darkest days of their lives.

e Foundation for Firelands Mammogram andBreast Cancer Fund gives women and men in our area access to potentially life-saving screenings andtreatments. Donations to this fund help to improvethe lives of so many people right in our communityby acting as a helping hand when they need it most.

Since this event began in 2009, the community has raised more than $750,000 to give individuals the opportunity to fight breast cancer with state-of-the-arttechnology, expert care providers and a support system unlike any other in our area, with patient navigators who will walk with patients every step ofthe way. is unparalleled support of our communitymeans that when you or your loved one is diagnosedwith breast cancer, you can trust Firelands RegionalMedical Center with your care from diagnosis,throughout treatment and into survivorship.

Join us for an unforgettable evening featuring guest appearances from two women featured in

“e Necklace”, Jone Pence and Dale Meugenberg. Jone and Dale will share their remarkable experienceof transformation and sisterhood that has led to incredible philanthropy throughout the country. Enjoy an evening of friendship and fun with fabulouslive and silent auctions, dinner, full open bar and a wildly entertaining fashion show.

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Fall 2013 – that’s the last time Firelands Regional Health System’s websites got a new look and feel. We’ve been cranking away at improvements, and guess what? The makeovers are finally complete.The system’s three websites – firelands.com, firelandsphysiciangroup.comand foundationforfirelands.com – were recently refreshed and updatedwith a number of modern improvements, including:

� Enhanced user-experience: Whether you start on firelands.com andneed to go to firelandsphysiciangroup.com, you need to search for a particular doctor, treatment or location, or you need to pay your bill – you can do it all quickly and easily from the new streamlinednavigation and site search functionality.

� Most-used tasks right at your fingertips: The websites now have atask navigation “How Can We Help You?” button that stays with youon every page, so you can easily find items you need, like online billpay, insurance information, career openings, find a doctor, donate to the Foundation, and more.

� Online bill payment for Firelands Physician Group patients:Firelands hospital patients have already had access to online bill pay,but now Firelands Physician Group patients do, too. When visiting the refreshed firelandsphysiciangroup.com, patients will now be ableto pay their bill online. The online bill pay portal can be found in the“How Can We Help You?” navigation of firelandsphysiciangroup.com,and on the Billing & Insurance page.

� Empower blog: You also may see a new online resource hub calledEmpower: A Firelands Regional Health System Blog. Found by visitingfirelands.com/blog, the purpose of this publishing platform is not

to serve as a health library, but to share real stories and insights tohelp patients understand what kind of experience they will have at Firelands and be empowered to select Firelands confidently as their healthcare provider of choice.

� Locations directory: Need to quickly find an address or phone number for a particular Firelands location? Found in the top navigation, the new Locations section lets you search, select a location, and find contact information including maps and directions.

� Improved physician profiles: As an ongoing project, the new Firelands website allows for more robust physician profiles, including detailed personal and professional biographies, and short videos that give you a glimpse inside the physician’s office.Check back for ongoing enhancements in this area of the site.

� Mobile accessibility: The previous website, which was launched in the fall of 2013, was also mobile friendly. With more than half of its website visitors coming from mobile devices and tablets, thenew website will also be easily accessible on mobile devices, withclick-to-call telephone numbers and no pesky zooming required.

The best way for us to know whether we can truly call the redesignedwebsite “new and improved” is for you to check it out! We hope our digital presence is useful to you and your current (or future) healthcare needs.

Find us online at firelands.com, firelandsphysiciangroup.com, or foundationforfirelands.com today and see the enhancements for yourself.

Have you seen the new and improved firelands.com?

Firelands Regional Medical Center Firelands Physician Group The Foundation for Firelands

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About Classes & Events Blog Careers

Find a Doctor Care & Treatment Locations Patients & Guests Education & Training

Welcome toFirelands Regional

Medical Center

+How Can We Help You?

WOMEN &CHILDRENBABY & ME CLASSThis fun and educational class willprovide opportunity to engage your baby while having experienceddevelopmental therapists coach you through important aspects ofdevelopment including tummy time,positioning, toy and equipmentchoice, sensory play, and earlylanguage development. This class is a collaborative between speech,occupational, and physical therapistsfrom Firelands Regional MedicalCenter Children’s S.P.O.T. and EarlyIntervention.For upcoming dates, please visitthe Children’s S.P.O.T section offirelands.com

BABYSITTING COURSEChildren 11 years of age and olderwill learn important safety info andresponsibility guidelines when caringfor younger children.Firelands South Campus1912 Hayes Ave., Sandusky8:30 am – 4 pmCost: $65� Saturday, September 30Call 419-557-7840 to register.

BOOT CAMP FOR NEW DADSThe workshop offers fathers-to-be achance to talk with experienced dadsand learn how to confidently engageand relax with their future infants.Veteran dads will share tips on howto calm a crying baby, swaddle aninfant, change a diaper, and more.Firelands South Campus1912 Hayes Ave., Sandusky9 am – 12 pmCost: FREE� Saturday, September 16� Saturday, November 25Call 419-627-4416 to register.

BREASTFEEDING BASICSTeaches new parents the benefits of breastfeeding and how tosuccessfully breastfeed their baby.Firelands South Campus1912 Hayes Ave., Sandusky10 am – 12 pmCost: $10 � Saturday, August 5� Saturday, September 2� Saturday, October 21� Saturday, November 18Call 419-557-7840 to register.

CHILDBIRTH EDUCATIONPrepares new parents for childbirthand caring for their new baby.Firelands South Campus1912 Hayes Ave., SanduskyCost: $35� Friday & Saturday

July 28 & 296 – 9 pm & 9 am – 4 pm

� WednesdayAugust 9, 16, 23, 306 – 8:30 pm

� WednesdaySeptember 6, 13, 20, 276 – 8:30 pm

� Friday & Saturday September 22 & 236 – 9 pm & 9am – 4 pm

� WednesdayOctober 4, 11, 18, 256 – 8:30 pm

� TuesdayNovember 7, 14, 21, 286 – 8:30 pm

� Friday & SaturdayDecember 1 & 26 – 9 pm & 9am – 4 pm

Call 419-557-7840 to register.

CHILDBIRTH REFRESHERAnyone who has previously taken afull childbirth education course mayrepeat the course for $10. Althoughwelcome to attend an entire course,parents can limit their attendance toselect classes of the course, whichwill provide information for review.Cost: $10Friday & Saturday Course:Attend Saturday only, 9 am – 3 pmWeekday Course:Attend 2nd and 3rd night of the 4-class courseCall 419-557-7840 to register.

HAPPIEST BABY ON THE BLOCKParents will learn a step-by-stepapproach to soothe the fussiestbaby. Based on the techniques of world-renowned pediatrician Dr. Harvey Karp.Cost: FREEFirelands South Campus1912 Hayes Ave., Sandusky� Wednesday, July 19

6 – 8 pm� Tuesday, September 5

12:30 – 2:30 pm� Wednesday, November 8

6 – 8 pm� Wednesday, December 6

12:30 – 2:30 pmCall 419-557-7840 to register.Erie County Health Department420 Superior St., Sandusky� Wednesday, October 11

12:30 – 2:30 pmCall 419-626-5623 to register.

CPR FOR FAMILY & FRIENDSDesigned to prepare people toprovide CPR in a safe, timely andeffective manner to adults, childrenand infants. This program is intendedfor people with no medical trainingwho want to learn more about CPR,AED use and choking.Firelands South Campus 1912 Hayes Ave., Sandusky9 am – 12 pmCost: $10/person or $15/couple� Saturday, August 26� Saturday, November 4Call 419-557-7840 to register.

SIBLING COURSEThis course prepares children for the upcoming birth of their sibling by helping them feel comfortable with the hospital setting and thevisiting routine after birth.Firelands Main Campus1111 Hayes Ave., Sandusky10 – 11:30 amCost: $10 per family� Saturday, December 16Call 419-557-7840 to register.

STORK EXPRESSFree program designed to givepregnant women the opportunity tostart on paperwork that is requiredduring their hospital stay. For anymom-to-be that is at least 34 weeksinto her pregnancy.Firelands Main Campus1111 Hayes Ave., Sandusky9 – 11 am� Saturday, July 8� Saturday, August 12� Saturday, September 9� Saturday, October 14� Saturday, November 11� Saturday, December 9Call 419-557-7840 to register.

Summer & Fall Calendar of events

WOMEN &CHILDREN [Continued]

PEDIATRIC SPECIALTY CLINICSMonthly specialty clinics for children,staffed by Board Certified PediatricSpecialists. Firelands Firelands Main Campus1912 Hayes Ave., SanduskyPediatric Cardiology ClinicClaudine Whitfield, MDToledo ProMedica HospitalPediatric Cardiology Specialist

Firelands South CampusOutpatient Specialty Clinic1912 Hayes Ave., SanduskyPediatric Gastroenterology ClinicJudy Splawski, MD, Anna Herrick, NPRainbow Babies & Children’s HospitalPediatric Gastroenterology SpecialistPediatric Neurology ClinicMax Wiznitzer, MD, Kathy Maxwell, NPRainbow Babies & Children’s HospitalPediatric Neurology SpecialistPediatric Orthopaedic ClinicGeorge Thompson, MDChristine Hardesty, MDRainbow Babies & Children’s HospitalPediatric Orthopaedic Specialists

Pediatric PhysiatryDouglas Henry, MDCleveland Clinic Children’s Hospital Pediatric Physiatry Specialist

Pediatric Pulmonology ClinicAmy DiMarino, DO Rainbow Babies & Children’s HospitalBruce Barnett, MDToledo ProMedica HospitalPediatric Pulmonology Specialists

To schedule an appointment,please call:� Dr. Whitfield, Pediatric

Cardiology Clinic & Dr. BarnettPediatric Pulmonology Clinic:419-557-7840

� Dr. Henry, Pediatric PhysiatryClinic: 216-448-6179

� All Other Pediatric Clinics:1-800-377-3117

� General Information Contact Tina May, NCMA 419-557-6767

SCREENINGSMORNING COFFEEFree blood pressure and blood sugarscreenings. Special 55+ Club rate.Fasting lipid profile for $17.Firelands South Campus 1912 Hayes Ave., Sandusky� First Wednesday of every

month, excluding December8 – 10 am

FREE BLOOD PRESSURE & BLOOD SUGARSCREENINGSScreenings are offered at variouslocations throughout Erie County. For a listing of dates and locations,please call 419-557-7410 or visitfirelands.com.

FREE BREAST CANCERSCREENINGFor the uninsured or underinsured.Screening will include a clinical breastexam, education on prevention andearly detection, and screeningmammogram if indicated. Firelands Center for Breast Care703 Tyler St., Suite 152, Sandusky9 am – 12 pm� Saturday, October 28Call 419-557-7840 to register.

HEALTH & WELLNESSSCREENINGSVarious screenings offered to community members for a low-cost fee. Cash or check only.Costs:� Complete Blood Count

with Metabolic & Lipid Panel – $45 (No eating or drinking for 12hours – water allowed; Includesliver and kidney function studies,fasting blood sugar, thyroid,cholesterol, HDL/LDL andtriglyceride levels.)

� Hemoglobin A1C – $25� PSA – $30

� Thursday, July 137:30 – 9:30 amOffice of Dr. Rogers & Dr. Zaky1605 St. Rt. 60, Vermilion

� Saturday, July 227:30 – 9:30 amOffice of Dr. Braniecki3960 East Harbor Rd, Port Clinton

� Saturday, August 167:30 – 9:30 amOffice of Dr. Rousseau7000 St. Rt. 113E, Berlin Heights

� Saturday, September 167 – 10 amFirelands Main Campus1111 Hayes Ave., Sandusky

� Saturday, October 217:30 – 9:30 amOffice of Kuns Family Medicine101 S. Washington St., Castalia

� Saturday, November 117:30 – 9:30 amOffice of Dr. Conley, Dr. Juwarkar & Dr. Cooper3006 S. Campbell St., Sandusky

� Saturday, December 77:30 – 9:30 amOffice of Dr. Rogers & Dr. Zaky1605 St. Rt. 60, Vermilion

Call 419-557-7840 to register.

EDUCATIONBASIC LIFE SUPPORT (BLS)This course provides information forhealthcare providers who currentlydo not have certification.Firelands South Campus1912 Hayes Avenue, SanduskyCost: $55 includes textbook

8 – 11:30 am� Tuesday, July 11� Thursday, July 27� Tuesday, August 1� Thursday, September 28� Tuesday, October 3� Wednesday, October 25� Wednesday, November 29� Wednesday, December 20

1 – 4:30 pm� Wednesday, August 23� Monday, September 11� Tuesday, November 7� Monday, December 4Call 419-557-6740 to register.

FREEDOM FROM SMOKING This 6-week program provides a supportive group environment and teaches a step-by-step methodfor changing behavior and quittingsmoking for long-term freedom.Firelands Main Campus1111 Hayes Ave., Sandusky 6 pm Tuesdays: � August 8 – September 12Call 419-557-6151 to register.

HEARTSAVER FIRST AIDWITH CPR/AED This full provider course coversadult, child and infant CPR plus AEDusage, and also obstructed airway.Firelands South Campus1912 Hayes Avenue, SanduskyCost: May take each classseparate for $55 or as a combo for $100; price includes textbook.8 am – 1 pm� Wednesday, July 12� Wednesday, August 9� Wednesday, September 13� Wednesday, October 11� Wednesday, November 22� Wednesday, December 13Call 419-557-6740 to register.

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGYThis course discusses the basicknowledge of the language ofmedicine and explains how complexmedical terms are formed. Noprevious knowledge of medicalterminology is required.Firelands South Campus1912 Hayes Avenue, SanduskyCost: $150 (includes materials)� Tuesdays & Thursdays

October 3–315 – 7 pm

Call 419-557-6740 to register.

WEIGHT MANAGEMENTPROGRAMThis program will teach participantshow to manage their weight throughlifestyle changes.Firelands Main CampusCancer Center Conference Room 701 Tyler St., Sandusky Cost: $30 (includes materials)� Tuesdays

July 11 – August 157 – 8 am

� TuesdaysSeptember 12 – October 175 – 6 pm

� Saturdays November 4,11,189 – 11 am

Call 419-557-7410 to register.

SUPPORTGROUPSFor a listing of support groups, please visit firelands.com or call 419-557-7410.

COMMUNITYEVENTS &PRESENTATIONSSAVE YOUR PUMPKINS5K RUN/WALKBENEFITTING FIRELANDSMAMMOGRAM & BREAST CANCERFUND AND SUSAN G. KOMENNORTHWEST OHIO� COMING IN OCTOBER!Visit firelands.com in the near future for more informationon date, time and location!

FIRELANDS REGIONALMEDICAL CENTERSCHOOL OF NURSINGOPEN HOUSELearn about the requirements foradmission and tour the school.Firelands South Campus1912 Hayes Avenue, 4th Floor Room H, SanduskyCost: FREE 1– 4 pm� Sunday, October 15To register or for moreinformation, call 419-557-7110.

LUNCHEONCLUBSandusky Yacht Club 529 E. Water St., SanduskyBuffet lunch: 11am – 12:30 pm Presentation: 12:30 pmEarly reservations are recommended,calling 419-557-7840or register online at firelands.comCost: $18/person(Includes tax/tip, cash or check only)

� Wednesday, July 26Taking it to the Next Level:Cardiothoracic Surgeon Dr. DeRisowill discuss why he workedtirelessly to help the State of Ohioregulate catheterization labs andhow this designation affects youand our community.Speaker: Anthony DeRiso, MDCardiothoracic SurgeonLakeside Heart & Lung

� Wednesday, August 23Nutrition After Age 50: Listento interesting facts about healthyeating after age 50 to help reducethe risk of developing and/ormanaging chronic age-relatedhealth issues. Speaker: Natalie Romito, RD, LDDietician, Firelands RegionalMedical Center

� Wednesday, September 27Getting Home Again: Learnabout healthcare options availableto help individuals regain functionand independence following aserious hospitalization from apanel of health professionals. Speaker: Sameh Rizkalla, MDPhysical Medicine &Rehabilitation, FirelandsInpatient RehabilitationCenter, together with a panelof healthcare professionalsspecializing in rehabilitation.

� Wednesday, October 25Healthcare Update From the CEO: Don’t miss anopportunity to hear the Presidentand CEO of Firelands RegionalMedical Center discuss healthcaretrends and how those trendsaffect our community.Speaker: Martin TurskyPresident/CEO of FirelandsRegional Medical Center

AUXILIARY/GIFT SHOPSALES & EVENTSBOOKS R FUNFeaturing a wide variety of newbooks at prices up to 70% off retail value.Firelands South Campus1912 Hayes Ave., Sandusky� Tuesday, October 17

7 am – 4 pmFirelands Main Campus1111 Hayes Ave., Sandusky� Thursday, October 26

7 am – 4 pm

OUT-OF-THE-BOX SHOE SALEShop the latest in shoes forhealthcare workers or office workers. Brands include Born,Clarks, Crocs, Dansko, Reeboks,Skechers, and much more.Firelands Main Campus1111 Hayes Ave., Sandusky� Tuesday, November 2

7 am – 5 pm� Wednesday, November 3

7 am – 2 pm

MASQUERADE JEWELRY SALEThe latest trends in jewelry andaccessories. All items are $5.Firelands Main Campus1111 Hayes Ave., Sandusky� November 30 – December 1

7 am – 8 pm

TRAVELOPPORTUNITIESEXTENDED TRIPS includeroundtrip transportation, overnightaccommodations, and some meals.For questions or reservations,call 419-557-7722.� Mississippi River MemoriesDeparting: August 14 (4 days)Enjoy a one-day cruise on the UpperMississippi, the National MississippiRiver Museum, shopping, and anarchitectural boat Cruise in Chicago.Cost: $848/per personDouble Occupancy� California Rail DiscoveryDepart by air: September 15 (7 days) Enjoy a tour of San Francisco,including a bay cruise, Sausalito,Napa, Old Town Sacramento, VirginiaCity, and two rail experiences viaNapa Valley Wine Train and SierraNevada Rail Journey.Cost: $2,899/per personDouble Occupancy � Santa Fe HolidayDeparting: November 29 (5 days) Tour Albuquerque City, Old Town Albuquerque, Indian PuebloCultural Center, Santa Fe City, Taos City, and Taos Pueblo.Cost: $1,845/per personDouble Occupancy

DAY TRIPS� Critters, Cars, Culture & CulinaryAdventure to Vienna, Ohio for aneasy access Safari excursion; tour 62acres where hundreds of incredibleanimals roam. Lunch at SaratogaRestaurant, a local favorite for nearly100 years. Visit the National PackardMuseum, tour the historic UptonHouse and shop at Jimmies ItalianSpecialties store all in one day!Departing: September 14Cost: $100/per person� Grove City Premium Outlet

Shopping SpreeGet a jump on your holiday shoppingin this full day of shopping in GroveCity, Pennsylvania (no tax on clothing).Departing: November 9Cost: $42/person

NON-PROFIT ORG.U S POSTAGE

PAIDSANDUSKY, OH 44870

PERMIT NO. 111111 Hayes AvenueSandusky, OH 44870

INGREDIENTS1 cup light lemon yogurt1 tablespoon honey1 teaspoon lemon juice2 cups watermelon balls2 cups cantaloupe balls2 cups halved fresh strawberries

Feel Better with Firelands® is published by the Marketing Department of Firelands Regional Medical Center. Reproduction or use without written permission of written or pictorial content in any manner is prohibited. This publication is for informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as medical advice.

DIRECTIONS � In a large salad bowl, combine light

lemon yogurt, honey and lemon juice. � Whisk mixture until smooth.� Add the watermelon, cantaloupe, and

strawberries, gently tossing to coat. � Serve immediately or chill and serve

when ready.

Nutrition Analysis per ServingTotal Calories 80 caloriesTotal Fat 0 gramsSodium 45 milligramsCarbohydrate 19 gramsFiber 2 gramsProtein 2 gramsVitamin K 240 milligramsNutrition Information compiled from the National Nutrient Database for Standard reference, accessed on (06/01/17).

Preparation: 20 minutesServings per Recipe: 6Serving Size: 1 cup